It was the historic Vaisakhi congregation of the faithful in the year 1699 A.D. (1756 Bikrami) held at Sri Anandpur Sahib that witnessed the creation of the Khalsa. The organisational structure of the Sikh Brotherhood received a new thrust and the fallen race of Hindus was awakened into the spirit of manhood. It was a moment of resurrection and revolutionary change, when the lowest of the low were raised to the highest, and the accursed practice of caste and creed was dispelled. The response to the Guru's call for the Sikhs to reach Sri Anandpur Sahib was tremendous. Kesgarh Sahib, the venue of the gathering, wore a look of expectancy and anticipation. As the Guru appeared before the eager sea of humanity, he unsheathed his sword and thundered:
"My sword needs human blood. Is there anyone who can offer his head?"
A strange sense of bewilderment and terror prevailed in the pandal, but the Guru's call was not ignored as soon Five Men stood up one by one and offered themselves for sacrifice in response to the Guru's call. They were the Panj Piaras,the Beloved Five, who formed the nucleus of the Khalsa. The Panj Piaras were formally initiated into the new fraternal brotherhood of the Singhs.The ceremony began with the recitation of the bani of Japji Sahib, Jap Sahib, Anand Sahib, Swayyas and Chaupai Sahib. The Guru stirred the water contained in an iron bowl with a Khanda (double-edged dagger). Mata Sahib Deva jee added patashas (sugar crystals) and lent sweetness to the spirit of chivalry. It was the amrit that was administered to the Beloved Five who stood transformed as Singhs (lions).